We are pleased to announce the Call for Abstracts/Proposals for the 46th IAJGS Conference in 2027. We are seeking fresh presentations on new topics, resources, research tools, methodologies, or a novel idea. We encourage you to submit up to three proposals.
Virtual Conference Format
Regular lectures, Panel Discussions, and other Presentations will be self-recorded in advance and made available only to confirmed Conference registrants. Recordings will be available two weeks before the Conference dates so attendees can preview sessions, prepare questions, and arrange informal discussion or “schmooze” chats with other attendees and speakers. Recordings will remain available to confirmed registrants only for up to 90 days after the Conference. During the Conference, the schedule will emphasize live interaction: selected live sessions, speaker discussions, workshops, exhibit halls, mentoring, translation assistance, networking, and moderated break-out conversations.
Priority for New or Significantly Refreshed Content
IAJGS seeks to offer attendees programming that is fresh, current, and not already widely available. We strongly encourage new presentations or substantially refreshed versions of prior presentations. Presentations that have been widely offered in 2025 or earlier should be meaningfully updated for 2027. Updates may include new records, new tools, new case studies, revised methodology, current technology, or improved visuals. When submitting a proposal, please indicate whether the presentation is new or, if previously presented, how it has been updated.
| Submission Deadline | Notification of Acceptance | *Recording Requirement | **Proposal Limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 15, 2026 11:59 PM EDT |
November 1, 2026 | Accepted speakers will receive recording instructions, technical assistance information, and final recording deadlines. | Maximum 3 paid proposals per individual |
Types of Presentations
Regular Lecture
Duration: Up to 60 minutes *Self-recorded prior to Conference A limited number of presentations will be presented live. Live Break-out Discussion/Q&A with the Speaker may be scheduled. **There will be a second call for shorter length (15-20 minute) non-paid presentations and “Schmooze Sessions” after the completion of this initial call. The shorter talks do not count against the limit of 3.
Panel Discussions
Duration: Up to 90 minutes | Participants: Up to 4 panelists | Format: Self-recorded prior to Conference unless selected for live presentation. Panel discussions should explore a topic from multiple perspectives and include a clear moderator or lead presenter. Live Break-out Discussion/Q&A with the Speaker may be scheduled.
Small Group Workshops
Duration: 90 or 120 minutes | Format: Live, instructor-led, small group (10 participants max). Workshops will provide hands-on instruction of applied methods or guided practice on a specific topic. We would especially like to see a writing/storytelling workshop and one related to newer technology.
Conference Themes
Proposals that align with at least one of the themes below are encouraged, though other broad topics in Jewish genealogy are also welcome.
| Jewish Communities | Ashkenazi, Sephardi, and Mizrahi communities. Presentations on the role of Jewish individuals and communities in history are especially welcome. |
| Migration | Where families came from and where they went. How they emigrated to various countries and how they reached their destinations. |
| Methodology/Technology |
Methodology – research planning, source evaluation, evidence analysis, workflow, and conclusions. Technology – software apps, databases, websites, search engines, & futures. |
| DNA | New methodologies in applying DNA test results to enhance genealogy research. |
| Artificial Intelligence | How the various products can expand and enhance genealogical research. |
| Storytelling | Documenting family history by telling stories through writing, books, blogs, or websites created to share your family's heritage with others. |
Speaker Honorarium
Honorarium is provided for the following session types. Conference registration is waived for the primary presenter or Lead Moderator of each session, only. No expenses will be paid.
| Session Type | Honorarium |
|---|---|
| Regular Lecture — Per Session | $150 |
| Panel Discussion — Lead Moderator to divide payment | Up to $300 ($75 each) |
| Small Group Workshop — Presenter | Up to $300 |
How to Submit
Proposals must be submitted by 11:59 PM EDT on September 15, 2026.
To begin the submission process, please click on the link below and create a new account:
Create a New IAJGS Account for 2027 Submission
*IMPORTANT: New speakers, or those with limited recent speaker engagements, will be requested to submit a brief MP4 sample (3-5 minutes) of their speaking skills prior to proposal acceptance. A link to a current online recording is also acceptable. The link for video upload is found in the online abstract application.
For questions, please contact the Program Committee at Program@IAJGS.org
46th IAJGS Program Committee
